Rev Richard Coles warns of scam after fake fundraising page set up after partner died aged 42
REV Richard Coles has warned his followers about a fake fundraiser which surfaced after his partner David Coles died aged 42.
The Strictly star took to Twitter after a fake "Funeral Fund" was set up in David's mum's name - set to scam mourners out of their cash.
After becoming aware of the scam, Richard tweeted: "SCAM ALERT someone has set up a gofund page for @RevDavidColes' funeral in his mother's name.
"It is a scam, please ignore."
The fake fundraising page was posted by someone posing as Irene Oldham, David's mum.
This comes after Rev Coles announced the tragic news that his partner David, 42, died after a long illness.
He tweeted: "I’m very sorry to say that @RevDavidColes has died.
"He had been ill for a while. Thanks to the brilliant teams who looked after him at @KettGeneral .
"Funeral details to follow."
He then included the Isaiah 60.20 passage: "The Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended."
Rev Richard Coles, 57, is a Church of England priest and English musician who became a fan favourite on Strictly Come Dancing in 2017.
Strictly professional dancer Dianne Buswell, who was partnered with Richard in the 2017 series, tweeted: "I am so sorry to hear this . Sending all my love to you rev ! my prayers and thoughts are with you x"
In his Twitter bio, David described himself as a "carer to FIVE delinquent yet delightful dachshunds. A dilettante potter, designer, gardener and narrow boat enthusiast."
He often shared posts about his love of cooking, and TV chef Mary Berry.
Rev Coles is most famous for being part of The Communards alongside Jimmy Somerville, who had been friends before joining the band.
He entered a partnership with David after the Church of England allowed it in 2005.
The couple had lived together in the vicarage of St Mary's in Finedon, Northamptonshire.
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